Assen Travel Guide

Discover Assen, Netherlands: its culture, history, outdoor activities, food scene, where to stay, and how to get around in this guide to the city.


Introduction to Assen

Assen, located in the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands, is a charming city filled with history and outdoor adventure. While it may not be as well-known as Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Assen has plenty to offer for those looking to explore the Netherlands beyond the beaten path.

List of Places to Visit in Assen

Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Assen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Assen has a rich history and is home to several museums and historical places worth visiting. The Drents Museum is a must-visit for those interested in local history and art. The museum has a collection of over 150,000 objects, including archaeological finds, art, and craftwork. Another place worth visiting is the Assen Fortress, a 16th-century monument that used to be a defense wall around the city.

Natural Attractions of Assen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Assen is known for its beautiful nature, and visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and sailing. The Drents-Friese Wold National Park, located just outside of the city, is a great place to start your outdoor adventures. The national park offers over 60 kilometers of hiking and biking trails and is home to several rare plants and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Assen

For those looking to explore the outdoors of Assen, here are some hiking and biking routes worth exploring:

  • The Veenhuizen route: This 48-kilometer route takes you through the beautiful nature around Veenhuizen. Along the way, you’ll pass by several historic buildings and museums.
  • The Drents-Friese Wold route: This 20-kilometer route takes you through the stunning national park. The route is suitable for both hiking and biking and offers beautiful views of the heathland, forests, and sand drifts.

Best Things to Do in Assen: Activities and Tours

Assen offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best:

  • The TT Circuit Assen: Racing fans should visit the TT Circuit Assen, which hosts several motorsports events throughout the year. Visitors can take guided tours of the circuit, visit the museum, and even take a spin on the track.
  • The Dutch Police Museum: The Dutch Police Museum is a unique museum that offers insight into the history and workings of the Dutch police. Visitors can see police equipment, vehicles, and even participate in a virtual police chase.
  • The Hondsrug UNESCO Global Geopark: The Hondsrug UNESCO Global Geopark is a natural park that offers visitors a chance to learn about the geological history of the area. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and explore the unique landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Assen

Here is a week-long itinerary for those looking to explore Assen:

Day 1: Visit the Drents Museum and learn about the local history and art.

Day 2: Explore the Assen Fortress, a 16th-century monument that used to be a defense wall around the city.

Day 3: Visit the TT Circuit Assen and take a tour of the circuit.

Day 4: Take a hike or bike ride through the Drents-Friese Wold National Park.

Day 5: Visit the Dutch Police Museum and learn about the history and workings of the Dutch police.

Day 6: Take a tour of the Hondsrug UNESCO Global Geopark and learn about the area’s geological history.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Assen

Assen has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Dutch cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some traditional Dutch dishes worth trying in Assen:

  • Stamppot: Stamppot is a hearty dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, typically served with smoked sausage.
  • Poffertjes: Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.

Local Beverages

Assen is known for its excellent beer and wine. The De Drie Koningen brewery, located in the city center, offers a range of locally-brewed beers, while the De Wijnmakerij winery produces high-quality wines made from locally-sourced grapes.

Where to Stay in Assen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Assen has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Van der Valk Hotel Assen: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Budget Hotel Noblesse: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the city center and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  • Auberge de Papenberg: This cozy inn is located in a picturesque setting and offers unique rooms and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Assen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Assen is known for its locally-made products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Drenthe honey: Drenthe honey is made from locally-sourced honey and is a popular souvenir for visitors.
  • Drents Museum souvenirs: Pick up a souvenir from the Drents Museum, such as a postcard or art book.

Local Culture and Customs of Assen

Assen has a strong sense of community and is home to several festivals and events throughout the year. The TT Festival, held in June, is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival celebrates the Dutch Grand Prix and features live music, food, and drink.

Best Time to Visit Assen

The best time to visit Assen is from June to September when the weather is mild, and the city is buzzing with outdoor activities and festivals. However, visitors can enjoy the city year-round, with plenty to do and see even during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Assen

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Assen:

Do:

  • Explore the city’s outdoor activities.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Attend local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Use your phone while biking.

Safety and Health

Assen is a safe city, with low crime rates. Visitors should take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and staying aware of their surroundings.

Safety in Assen

Assen is a safe city, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Assen

Assen has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics in and around the city.

Getting to Assen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Assen is well-connected to other cities in the Netherlands and Europe. Here are some transportation options for getting to Assen:

Airports Near Assen

The nearest airport to Assen is Groningen Airport Eelde, located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers direct flights to several European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Assen

Assen has a bus station located in the city center, with regular connections to other cities in the Netherlands and Europe.

Other Options

Assen is also accessible by train, with regular connections from Amsterdam and other Dutch cities.

How to Get Around in Assen

Assen is a walkable city, with many of the attractions located in the city center. Visitors can also rent bikes or take the local bus to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Assen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Assen is located in the heart of the Netherlands and is a great base to explore other nearby destinations. Here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Groningen: The city of Groningen is located approximately 30 kilometers from Assen and is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant student culture.
  • Giethoorn: Located approximately 50 kilometers from Assen, Giethoorn is a picturesque village known for its traditional Dutch architecture and peaceful canals.
  • Leeuwarden: Located approximately 70 kilometers from Assen, Leeuwarden is the capital of the Friesland province and is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful canals.

Conclusion

Assen may not be as well-known as other Dutch cities, but it has plenty to offer for those looking to explore the Netherlands beyond the beaten path. With its rich history, outdoor adventures, and vibrant food scene, Assen is a city worth exploring.

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